Luma Energy promotes municipal collaboration for emergency electrical restoration efforts

The government meeting held on May 15, 2025, by the Cámara de Representantes in Puerto Rico focused on the collaboration between municipalities and Luma Energy regarding emergency response and electrical service restoration. The discussions highlighted the importance of proper coordination and documentation to ensure municipalities can access federal aid, particularly from FEMA, following natural disasters.

The meeting began with Luma Energy representatives emphasizing the need for enhanced collaboration with municipalities rather than limiting it. They expressed concerns that insufficient notification and coordination could complicate the certification process for federal assistance, potentially leading to significant financial losses for local governments. Luma proposed signing memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with municipalities to clarify collaboration on repairing the transmission and distribution systems while adhering to safety regulations.

Key recommendations were made to improve the notification process for municipalities when undertaking emergency repairs. These included requiring detailed information such as contractor names, insurance policies, work schedules, and contact information. Luma urged the committee to maintain current notification terms to facilitate effective emergency responses.

During the meeting, representatives discussed the necessity of adhering to federal requirements for reimbursement claims, noting that certification of municipal work does not guarantee eligibility for federal funds without formal agreements. Questions were raised about how to expedite mutual aid agreements between Luma and municipalities, emphasizing the critical role of local leaders in emergency situations.

The meeting concluded with a call for improved communication and cooperation among all parties involved in emergency management, underscoring the need for a swift and effective response to restore essential services like electricity and water during crises. The discussions set the stage for future actions aimed at enhancing the resilience of Puerto Rico's infrastructure in the face of natural disasters.